Students at the University of Hull launched the Don’t Be Shellfish initiative in a bid to raise awareness of the serious threats to marine life such as plastic pollution.
Driving the point home, the environmentally conscious students strategically placed placards in the water close to the Humber Bridge so it appears the marine life themselves are protesting against the conditions of their habitat.
The picket line is created from reclaimed materials, and will be recycled once dismantled, in keeping with the message of sustainability.
Research from the University of Hull has discovered how the increased acidity of oceans could have an alarming impact on how marine life communicates.
Furthermore, another of their studies unearthed micro-plastics and other debris in a dismaying 100% of mussels sampled from both the UK coast, and supermarkets.
Director of the University of Hull’s Energy and Environment Institute, Dan Parsons, said:
The world is waking up to the negative impact that plastic pollution in particular is having on marine environment.
However, there is still a lack of awareness about what is happening beneath the surface of the water, which is why we felt it was important to give a voice to the marine life unable to speak out about the challenges they face.
Research has found how 92% of Brits are worried about the harmful effect plastic pollution in the oceans will have for the generations to come.
However, this same study found 65% of people are unsure about what materials are recyclable, with 77% wanting further information about what they are able to recycle.
The University of Hull is committed to addressing environmental issues on a global scale, with this vital initiative supported by the Marine Conservation Society.
Dr Chris Tuckett, Director of Programmes at the Marine Conservation Society, says the campaign is both eye-catching and eye-opening.
The University has creatively done something to raise awareness about a vital issue, while at the same time revealing important findings.
The research shows that people care about the challenges that marine life faces, and the potential negative ramifications for future human generations.
We hope this initiative raises vital awareness and encourages others, including policymakers, to take meaningful action.
To find out more about the impact of the University’s research, how you can make a difference by studying with us or joining us in our pledge to use less plastic, visit www.hull.ac.uk/delvedeeper.
Taking the idea of ‘being woke’ to a whole new level over a decade-long career in sport, court and online news, George has worked for titles and agencies including ESPN FC, Eurosport, LADbible and Court News UK. He may not have a degree but does have an unhealthy obsession with Lord of the Rings.